Broadband technologies jumpstart rural economies

On February 22, the Federal Communications Commission updated the National Broadband Map, replacing the original map that was released seven years ago by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The current map also has the ability to overlay satellite imagery. The map is currently using data collected in December 2016 based on Form 477 filings that broadband providers must make with the FCC. The map is based on census block level data. One of the features of the map allows the user to select a service provider and be able to see where the availability for that providers is located and offered. The map is cloud-based and will support more frequent data updates and display improvements at a far lower cost, according to the FCC news release for the map.

Fixed deployment data based on the latest collection by the FCC and updated twice annually

Deployment summaries for seven different geographical types, which include nation, state, county, congressional district, city or town, Tribal area, and Core-based Statistical areas (like City NY-NJ-PA)

Broadband availability and provider counts in each of the nation’s over 11 million census blocks for six technologies that include fiber, DSL, cable, satellite, fixed wireless, as well as seven speeds for a total of 441 combinations

Deployment comparisons between geographic areas

A portal for data downloads

Satellite imagery map overlay that shows buildings, roads, and geography
Graphs that show what fraction of an area’s population has access to broadband at a given speed